As a resident of Chicago, Rain BDM team member Dave Argentar and his family have supported Common Pantry – the city’s oldest continually-operating food pantry – for many years. So when the COVID-19 crisis emerged, it was only natural for Dave to suggest we “Show Cause” for this worthy community-oriented agency.
Common Pantry is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit food bank founded in 1967 to combat hunger and food insecurity in some of Chicago’s northern neighborhoods. During the second week in April 2020, the organization saw a 70 percent surge in visitors from the previous month, a huge increase in the need for its services. Like many other nonprofits offering food assistance, it has had to adapt to the current environment.
In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Common Pantry launched I Am Your Neighbor Meals, where donors contact a restaurant and pay for others to eat. Donations can be made in any amount and go toward meal credits. Restaurants that participate in the program post signs in their windows showing their involvement, and an individual or family in need can stop in and order a meal for carryout. By mentioning the I Am Your Neighbor program, the food is free, deducted from the credit on the “running tab.” For the restaurants, food and beverage suppliers, and the community, it’s a win-win-win situation.
Our team is proud to rally behind Common Pantry, and not just during the COVID-19 emergency. If you’d like to help Common Pantry help others, please consider opportunities to donate or volunteer.
